ABOUT

New York-based designer Fotini has created a collection that combines luxurious fabrics, intricate details and her love of corsetry. Fotini spent 3 years traveling throughout Italy in the areas of Bergamo, Bologna and Como studying the construction of corsetry beside oldworld ateliers. This skill has enabled Fotini to design the feminine, sensuous and chic pieces that she felt were missing from her own closet incorporating the corset throughout. Fotini understands her customer’s needs – "A woman designing for women."

The Spring/Summer 2013 collection finds its roots in the muted color palette of 18th century French painters – butter, sage, soft pink, lavender, taupe and white – citing Watteau, Boucher and Fragonard who used delicate colors to create sumptuous looks.

Her signature print is an elegant wisteria that was delicately applied to the evening gowns, cocktail dresses and ready to wear pieces; as an ode to luxurious interpretations of Madame de Pompadour, FOTINI has used organza, silk chiffon and lace fabrics. Touches of beading, lace and hand-cut petal embellishments recall the naturalistic architectural details found in Versailles and the Queluz National Palace.

While translating the soft and airy quality of this movement in France into a sensual and feminine collection, FOTINI attempted to also encapsulate the playful and witty ethos of the entire period. Who said a dress could not be a canvas?